Long Tall Cool One features: Bruce Hornsby (piano, vocals); Jimmy Haslip (bass); John Molo (drums); Branford Marsalis (saxophone); Phil Collins (backing vocals).
This song has taken a while to grow on me, but now I could listen to it all night. No real message to the song, it’s just a song about a guy who gets involved in some shady dealing. A great gangster-style scene which involves driving “out about 13 miles” to a bar to discuss a deal – half expect Robert de Niro to make an appearance in the song. I suppose the main attraction of the song is the sax/clarinet solo which goes on throughout. However, listen carefully and you’ll also spot some pretty nifty bass guitar playing, which I believe is the key to the song.
Carwyn Tywyn
Long Tall Cool One meaning of the song
“Long Tall Cool One” by Bruce Hornsby delves into themes of curiosity, temptation, and the ambiguous nature of relationships. The lyrics portray a narrative of a protagonist who becomes intrigued by a mysterious figure, engaging in an exploration of what lies beneath the surface of this connection. The song’s tone oscillates between excitement and apprehension, suggesting the complexities and potential risks involved in forging new relationships, especially in unfamiliar settings.
The opening lines, “Is he sane or insane / That’s all they want to know,” set the stage for a character whose mental state is questioned by those around him. This ambiguity creates an air of intrigue and danger. The protagonist’s desire to follow this enigmatic figure—”If so I want to go”—indicates a pull towards the unknown, an urge to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the character.
Lyric references
The mention of a “shothouse bar” implies a dive bar or an establishment where alcohol is served and perhaps questionable activities occur. This setting introduces an element of risk and reinforces the song’s exploration of the darker side of human interaction. The protagonist’s experience of driving “about thirteen miles” to reach this bar highlights a journey into unfamiliar territory, both physically and emotionally.
The recurring phrase “long tall cool one” serves as a metaphor for the intoxicating allure of the mysterious figure. The term “cool one” suggests an easygoing yet enigmatic personality, while “long tall” may imply a sense of stature or presence that captivates the protagonist. This figure represents not just a potential friend but also a source of temptation, drawing the protagonist into a world that could lead to unforeseen consequences.
The lines “You see I walked right in, sat right down / Offered him a light” depict a casual initiation of interaction, but this soon spirals into “big talk for about thirteen hours,” hinting at a deeper connection or conversation that may blur the lines between friendship and something more complicated.
The reference to waking up “in the middle of the night / Got myself in way over my head” reveals the protagonist’s growing awareness of the potential pitfalls of this relationship. There is a sense of being trapped in a situation that may have started innocently but has now escalated to a level of discomfort or danger.
Additional references
Shothouse bar: A colloquial term for a bar that may cater to a rough crowd, often associated with heavy drinking and illicit activities. It implies an atmosphere that is not refined or respectable.
Long tall cool one: This phrase serves as a catchphrase for the enigmatic figure, representing the allure of new connections while also hinting at the potential risks associated with them.
Final thoughts
In “Long Tall Cool One,” Bruce Hornsby captures the allure and danger of stepping outside one’s comfort zone in pursuit of new relationships. The song serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of human interaction, particularly when drawn to individuals who embody mystery and risk. Through evocative imagery and a narrative-driven approach, Bruce invites listeners to reflect on the choices we make and the unforeseen consequences that can arise from our curiosity and desire for connection. Ultimately, the song suggests that while new friendships can be thrilling, they may also come with their own set of challenges and uncertainties.